Column: From the bench – previewing Super Bowl 54

On Feb. 2 the San Francisco 49ers will play against the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl 54. 

Both teams played impressive regular seasons, with the Chiefs regular season record at 12-4 and the 49ers record at 13-3. 

Led by former Patriots backup quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, the 49ers showcased an elite offense this season, with Garoppolo accumulating 3,978 yards and 27 touchdowns with only 13 interceptions.

The Chiefs signal caller, Patrick Mahomes, built on his impressive three-year career. This season Mahomes boasted 4,031 yards, 26 touchdowns and
five interceptions.

The teams both have unique ways of attacking defenses with their crafty offensive play calling and hidden talents. 

Mahomes is known for his ability to perform well under pressure in the pocket, making throws others may deem impossible.

Garoppolo is more of a standard pocket passing quarterback but can extend a play with his feet if needed. The 49ers offense also uses a unique three-man backfield with each runner being as good as the last.

However, Tevin Coleman, the 49ers leading rusher, was carted off the field with an injury during the NFC championship game. This did not seem to matter much, as running back Raheem Mostert put up a career game with 220 yards and four touchdowns in the win over the Green Bay Packers.

The Chiefs offense in the AFC championship game looked nearly perfect against the usually strong Tennessee Titans defense. The final score was 35-24.

The 49ers have also had one of the top defenses in the NFL this season, led by standout stars like Nick Bosa and Richard Sherman. The team was ranked in the top five for defenses in the league and sealed the victory over the Packers with an interception from Sherman. 

Though the Chiefs defense has been often overlooked compared to their offense, with defensive stars like Tryrann Mathieu in the secondary, their defense is still a force to be reckoned with. Mathieu’s career has been nothing short of impressive with his low target numbers and his big playmaking ability. 

The two teams are set to face off in Miami with what should be a highly competitive and fun game to watch in a matchup few people predicted when the season kicked off.

Head Coaches Andy Reid of the Chiefs and Kyle Shanahan of the 49ers have done everything possible to prepare their teams for the big game.

Millions will be watching as these two heavyweight titans go head to head and battle for the ultimate title of Super Bowl champion. Kickoff will be at
6:30 p.m. on FOX.

Dean is a sports reporter. Follow him on Twitter.